MCA Jazz Combos Performances

Wednesday | November 1 | 6:00-7:30pm
Saint Mary’s Performance Center | Figiulio Recital Hall

Sunday | November 12 | 5:30-7:00pm
Wellingtons Pub and Grill

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) Jazz Combos are busy rehearsing for two upcoming community concerts that are free and open to the public. MCA is home to three jazz combos: the Duke, Dizzy and Basie Combos. These combos are comprised of students ages 11-17 from the Winona area. The public is invited to hear these talented young musicians (details above).

The jazz combo program, which began in September 2012 under the direction of Dave Gudmastad, has grown quickly. Each jazz combo rehearses for one hour each week beginning in September and continuing through March. The combos help students learn the art of jazz in a small ensemble setting. The rehearsal sessions provide basic instruction in jazz-related rhythm, tone, style, concept, listening skills, and improvisation. Performances throughout the community provide performance experience to the musicians and free entertainment open to the public.

A new session starts in January for young musicians interested in joining a combo. MCA Music Division programs are made possible by the Hiawatha Education Foundation, and by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

For more information, visit www.smumn.edu/MCA, e-mail mca@smumn.edu, or call 507-453-5500.

Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is a member of the River Arts Alliance. To learn more about the benefits of membership, please visit riverartsalliance.org/JOIN.